Biographical Data :

Arguably the most accomplished Urdu poet of the sub-continent, Sahir Ludhianvi was a legend among poets who wrote some of the most memorable songs, many of which have figured in Bollywood films.

He had extraordinary ability to capture a range of emotions in words. His progressive background also reflected in his poetry. He was a firm believer in women’s rights and championed their cause. ‘Aurat ne janam diya mardon ko, mardon ne use bazaar diya’ from Sadhna stands out because of its lyrics that depicted the condition of women.

The poet’s disillusionment with the establishment after India became independent came strongly in ‘Jineh naaz hai hind per wo kahan hain’ (Pyaasa: 1957). So powerful and compelling were the words of the song, sung by Muhammad Rafi, that the government banned it from being played on All India Radio. Other Pyaasa songs including, ‘Yeh mahlon yeh takhton yeh tajjon ki duniya’ won him universal acclaim in the 1950s.

Sahir made his debut with Naujawan (1951), best remembered for the song Thandi hawayen lehrake aayen. His first major success was Baazi (1951). The best of his lyrics were written for films like Hum Dono (1961), Taj Mahal (1964) and Waqt (1965). Yash Chopra’s Kabhi Kabhie (1976) is said to be based on the poet’s life.

Sahir was romantically involved with several women though he never married. He was exceptionally fond of his mother and believed her to be a great inspiration.